Pop rivet removal methods?

[Moose]

What's the best way to remove pop rivets from stamped wing ribs, when stripping fabric?

General opinions, tried and true methods, and all humorous responses welcomed!

[Mark Julicher]

Re: Pop rivet removal methods?

Best way is to hire someone else to remove them. Otherwise, use an automatic center punch to push the retained center out of the blind rivet and then drill the head with a sharp, new drill bit. Stop short of penetrating the rib and then break the head off with a pin punch if you can, but drilling all the way through is OK if you are careful. Take your time. Certain verbal epithets seem to assist the drill, experiment there until you find one that works for you.

[Moose]

Re: Pop rivet removal methods?

Mark -

Thanks!

I started the process, and I've just decided to use all the "verbal epithets" that I can think of. Why stop at one?

Jim

[astjp2]

Re: Pop rivet removal methods?

Dotco with an abrasive disc to just thin down the head to paper thick, then it will punch right through the rib. Tim